THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
A short guided hike from Gavilan on the northern flank of Rincón de la Vieja leads to El Santuario, a tucked-away waterfall reached by trail, cave passages and a 25-meter river swim. Perfect for hikers comfortable with wet rock and basic swimming.
A short guided hike from Gavilan on the northern flank of Rincón de la Vieja leads to El Santuario, a tucked-away waterfall reached by trail, cave passages and a 25-meter river swim. Perfect for hikers comfortable with wet rock and basic swimming.
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Book directly with Guanaverde Experiences for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
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Operated by Guanaverde Experiences · Bijagua, Alajuela
Steam rises off the river as you step from the last patch of trail and the canyon narrows—turquoise water daring you forward. The path through Gavilan’s rainforest tightens with ferns and heliconia; birds call from the canopy while the river’s current seems to push you toward a hidden drop. El Santuario sits off the beaten route on Rincon de la Vieja’s northern flank, revealed only after a short swim through a polished, rock-walled gorge.
moderate.
3–4 hours.
Moderate fitness recommended—comfortable with short climbs, scrambling and a 25m swim; able to handle uneven terrain.
Total walk is about 2 km roundtrip on singletrack with some elevation changes; you’ll swim roughly 25 meters through a river canyon to reach the waterfall.
Not recommended for non-swimmers or young children; guides provide lifevests and tailor the route to ability, but basic swimming comfort is required.
Facilities are limited in Gavilan and on the trail; use facilities in town before departure and bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer for remote stops.
Yes—operators usually cancel for heavy rain or unsafe river conditions; confirm cancellation and refund policy when booking.
The northern slopes of Rincón de la Vieja are shaped by past eruptions and human land use; local communities combine small-scale agriculture with stewardship of surrounding forest corridors.
This area sits adjacent to protected parkland—stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and carry out all trash to minimize impact.
Guanaverde Experiences operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with Guanaverde Experiences
Book directly with Guanaverde Experiences for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now